Abstract Background Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a common arrhythmia in pediatric patients. Emerging evidence suggests a link between systemic inflammation and cardiovascular diseases. Objectives This study aims to investigate the relationship between the monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with SVT in pediatric patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study at Rize Education and Research Hospital’s Pediatric Health and Diseases Department, including 33 patients diagnosed with SVT and 33 control subjects without sinus tachycardia. Hemogram (CBC) parameters, electrocardiography (ECG), […]

Abstract Background Digital health uses innovative information technology for healthcare needs. Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly adopted in healthcare, including cardiovascular rehabilitation (CVR), to improve performance and adherence. However, digital interventions must consider users’ perspectives to prevent VR from becoming a barrier. Objective This study aimed to assess the usability and enjoyment of physical activity associated with VR among inpatients with heart failure (HF). Method A prospective pilot study was conducted with ten patients diagnosed with HF. Participants completed an […]

Abstract Background Current guidelines recommend incorporating exercise and physical activity, such as inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and neuromuscular training, as adjunctive therapies alongside pharmacological treatments for patients with heart failure (HF). Objective To evaluate the effects of IMT and peripheral muscle training (PMT) on respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, lung function, and functional capacity in patients with HF. Methods This is a randomized controlled trial. Prior to randomization, all patients were assessed with the 6-minute walk test, inspiratory muscle strength […]

Abstract Background Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is the preferred reperfusion strategy for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with an onset time

Abstract Background Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) promotes endothelial dysfunction and systemic inflammation, and it is associated with shorter long-term survival and unfavorable clinical outcomes in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Objectives To investigate the factors associated with the risk of OSA in the aftermath of STEMI. Methods A cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted with 145 individuals with STEMI in a large Brazilian teaching hospital. Anthropometric measurements were performed in addition to collecting sociodemographic/clinical data and lifestyle habits. The STOP-BANG […]

Abstract Introduction Enoxaparin is a known alternative to the use of unfractionated heparin (UFH) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, the evidence about which of these medications would have the best benefit for these patients in 48 hours and 14 days is limited. Objectives Perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the safety of enoxaparin versus UFH in ACS without ST-segment elevation (NSTE-ACS). Methods PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for RCTs that compared enoxaparin versus […]

Abstract Background: Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the leading cause of valve disease in developing countries, with intracardiac thrombus events as one of the frequent manifestations. Based on Trias Virchow, a thrombus occurs because of endothelial injury, blood flow abnormality, and hypercoagulability. In RHD, this condition is caused by inflammation, mitral stenosis (MS), and atrial fibrillation (AF). Pro-inflammatory cytokines promote thrombus formation, and anti-inflammatory cytokines inhibit it. IL-4 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine that can potentially inhibit thrombus formation because it […]

Abstract Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) stands out as the most prevalent arrhythmia, and its incidence increases with age. Stroke ranks as the second leading cause of mortality in Brazil and represents the primary contributor to global disability. Objective: Considering the severity of these conditions, this study seeks to elucidate the epidemiological landscape of AF and stroke-related deaths in Brazil from 1996 to 2022. Methods: The following variable were analyzed in the study – geographic region, federative state, age demographics, gender […]

Abstract Background: Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a significant cause of morbimortality. Epidemiological data in Portugal are limited, potentially leading to underdiagnosis. Catheter-directed therapy (CDT) is a promising alternative treatment, particularly for high-risk patients. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of CDT on intermediate-high-risk and high-risk acute PE. Methods: This is a retrospective single-centre study conducted from 2019 to 2023 in Portugal. Data included patient demographics, clinical presentation, procedural characteristics, and outcomes. Comparisons before and after the procedure were carried out, […]

Abstract Background: Aortic Stenosis (AS) is one of the most common valvular heart diseases in adults, especially the elderly. The persistence of heart failure symptoms and worse outcomes despite valve replacement treatment may be associated with the coexistence of Cardiac Amyloidosis (CA). Objective: To determine the prevalence of CA in patients with calcific AS. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Elderly patients with moderate to severe AS underwent cardiac scintigraphy with bone radiotracer for diagnosis of CA. Patients diagnosed with […]